The
Asian featherbacks, which have a well developed dorsal fin, have been
placed in the genus Notopterus for a long time. Nowadays the genus
Notopterus is seen monotypic (it contains only the single species N.
notopterus) and the high-backed forms have been placed in another genus,
namely Chitala.
Currently
we have the very attractive species Chitala blanci in stock. This
featherback, which can attain a maximum length of about 120 cm,
originates from the basin of the Mekong river in Thailand, Laos, and
Cambodia. The fish are gorgeous inhabitants for large aquaria. Chitala
blanci prefers waters with a strong current and avoids quiet water or
swamps.
All
species of Chitala are predatory fish that have to be fed with beefy
(frozen) food. Of course small fish are also eaten. The sexes cannot be
distinguished externally. Against conspecifics and other tankmates that
cannot be eaten, featherbacks are very peaceful. During breeding season
the fish form pairs and spawn on rocks, wood etc. The spawn is guarded
by the parents.
Chitala
species are able to breath atmospheric air when necessary. So they can
survive even in oxygen-poor water for quite a long time. This makes the
much sought for market fish in the countries where they occurs. However,
the flesh is full of small bones, so the meat is usually chopped,
pressed through a sieve and used for meatballs.
For our customers: the fish have code 439006 on our stocklist. Please note that we exclusively supply the wholesale trade.
Text & photos: Frank Schäfer
